Is the BMW X1 reliable?
Overall, the BMW X1 is a robust and reliable family car that shouldn’t present any major problems. Of course, it does suffer from a handful of mechanical issues, but these are well known and can be repaired.
In What Car?’s Reliability Survey, the X1 finished in eighth place out of 34 cars in the family SUV class, with a score of 96.6% and finished above the likes of the Audi Q3 and Mercedes GLE.
Engine: A clogged diesel particulate filter isn’t uncommon if a diesel car isn’t driven long distances, because regeneration is activated at motorway speeds.
Reduced performance could spell problems with the crankshaft sensor. Helpfully, BMW will replace this for you if your car is affected.
The passenger-side engine mount can crack. If you hear any strange noises or feel extra vibrations, getting this replaced should alleviate the issue.
Electrics: Watch for DAB radio, sat-nav and whole infotainment system failures. A broken control module or faulty wiring can knock them out. Software updates can assuage the problem.
Brakes: Discs and pads are known to wear more quickly on 4x4s, so check their condition and ask for them to be replaced as part of the deal if they’re on their way out.
Suspension: Bushes and suspension arms can wear prematurely, so listen out for knocks on a test drive.
Gearbox: It’s not uncommon for the gearbox to jump out of gear; this is generally more of an issue with manual X1s. If this happens on a test drive, walk away. Also listen out for a rattling noise from the dash at higher speeds or when accelerating, as this can also spell trouble for the gearbox.
